Sample Topics

Topic One:How Can We Know If There’s A G‑d?
In our first session, we open the debate between logic and belief — are we supposed to have blind faith? Do we have to believe what we’re told - or are supposed to think for ourselves? Is there any evidence to support the notion of a G‑d? What kind of evidence is needed to “prove” it? Students will explore different standards of proof and consider the notion of atheism and agnosticism vs. belief in G‑d. LOGIC OR FAITH? YOU DECIDE!

Topic Two:On purpose or by chance?
This lesson presents the oldest argument for a creator - the teleological approach. Where did the belief in G‑d come from? Abraham searched for the origin of the universe and discovered G‑d, what do we find when we embark on our quest for the truth? What does our mind tell when we explore the cosmos and search for our beginnings? ON PURPOSE OR BY CHANCE: WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Topic Three:Do science and Judaism conflict?
According to the theory of evolution, organic life began as a result of a random process. Torah on the other hand says the world was created by G‑d in seven days. How can they both be correct? Which explanation is right? Do science and Torah really collide? Or is there a deeper way to see all of this? SCIENCE VS. RELIGION: WHERE DO YOU STAND?

Topic Four:Can I be good without G‑d?
Religion has been the reason for so much violence and hatred in the world. Do we need a G‑d to dictate the rules or is the human mind capable of making just rules and governments? In this lesson students will grapple with morality and the notion of an absolute standard of good and evil. Does religion prevent people from doing evil, or is it the cause for so much evil? GOOD WITHOUT G-D? YOU BE THE JUDGE

Topic Five:Is the Torah really true?
Judaism claims G‑d gave the Torah to the Jewish people on Mt. Sinai. How do we know this is true? Why should any rational person blindly accept this? This lesson will explore evidence of the “Sinai argument.” Is the Jewish claim any different than those of other religions? SINAI: TRUTH OR MYTH - WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE?

Topic Six:Lesson six – Hide and Seek
The final lesson will bring the course to a close. We will conclude our debate exploring the power of logic — and the power of faith. We will review the four logical arguments presented throughout the course and introduce one last idea: the Jewish History argument. We end off with the most important questions of all: Why is G‑d hidden? What is the meaning of life? What is the mission and purpose of the Jewish people? CHAOS OR DESTINY: OMG!

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Light Dinner Included
Kickoff is Sunday September 10th!